Which organism is known to cause severe diarrhea?

Clostridioides difficile is widely recognized for causing severe diarrhea, particularly in individuals who have been prescribed antibiotics. This organism can lead to a condition known as C. difficile infection (CDI), which often occurs when the normal gut flora is disrupted, allowing C. difficile to proliferate. The toxins produced by this bacterium can lead to inflammation of the colon and result in diarrhea, which can be profuse and sometimes accompanied by abdominal pain and fever. The severity of CDI can range from mild diarrhea to life-threatening colitis, making it a significant concern in healthcare settings, particularly among hospitalized patients and those with weakened immune systems.

In contrast, while the other choices can also cause diarrhea, they typically do not present with the same severity or complications associated with Clostridioides difficile. For instance, Escherichia coli can lead to diarrhea, but not all strains are as virulent as C. difficile. Staphylococcus aureus is more typically associated with food poisoning, leading to rapid-onset gastrointestinal symptoms rather than severe diarrhea alone. Salmonella enterica can cause gastroenteritis with diarrhea, but again, the severity and potential for antibiotic-associated cases of severe diarrhea aligns more closely with C. difficile.